Welcoming environments

The surroundings where patients are treated have a significant impact on how they feel which has a major influence on their recovery. It is not just about comfort and distraction, which are important; it is about a positive and welcoming space that gives confidence in the care they receive.

Above & Beyond help by upgrading existing spaces, providing artwork and creating new spaces such as private rooms or visitor lounges. This creates a calm, relaxed and less clinical feel, for a more pleasant and comforting atmosphere, which benefits patients, their families and visitors, and staff. The spaces that we help provide are fit to match the outstanding care provided by staff.

Examples creating welcoming environments our supporters have funded:

Transforming the Bristol Royal Infirmary and the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre, as part of our £6m Golden Gift Appeal, has meant that patients and their families experience new services in a modern and positive environment. Including:

More individual treatment rooms on the new ward block to give greater privacy and isolation rooms for cystic fibrosis patients to reduce infection risk.

Refurbishment of the emergency department (ED) to create a brighter place with freshly decorated walls and pictures for a more pleasant waiting experience.

A brighter visitor waiting area and two new relatives rooms for overnight stays in the ICU so families are close to loved ones.

Creation of the first adult Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) unit in the South West so patients can be treated in one place.

A multi-faith Sanctuary space open to everyone – all faiths and none; patients, staff, visitors and members of the public – for contemplation and quiet reflection, at what can be a very difficult time.

Other projects funded include:

Redevelopment of the paediatric Neuroscience and Major Trauma and Rehabilitation Unit, due to begin in 2017, including a rehabilitation kitchen and an oasis garden, which is a quiet space for parents and patients to spend quality time together outdoors away from the clinical environment.

Artwork to provide a pleasant and stimulating environment as there is significant evidence that artwork helps patients’ recovery. It can act as a distraction, particularly important for patients with dementia. Large photos of Bristol, past and present, provide a focal point for conversation, reminiscence and encourage patients to walk around.

Bristol Heart Institute atrium was designed to create a tranquil environment conducive to rehabilitation. The Above & Beyond Heart of Bristol Appeal raised over £800,000 to enhance the facilities at the BHI, which funded the innovative central open atrium, built to let in natural light and enhanced by artworks and indoor trees.

To help us continue to create welcoming environments for our patients, their families and staff, please donate here. Thank you.